One of the charms of villa life in Bali is being part of a local neighborhood, complete with its furry, four-legged residents. While community dogs and cats are an integral part of Bali life, it’s important to know how to interact safely. This guide provides practical Bali villa animal safety tips for a peaceful coexistence.
Understanding the “Gang Dog”: They Have a Home (It’s the Street)
The first step is to shift your perspective. Most of the dogs near your Bali villa are not “strays” in the way you might think. They are community dogs, often considered to belong to the entire street (gang) or local council (Banjar). They view this area as their territory and the people who live there as their wider family.
The “Do’s” of Being a Good Neighbor
Coexisting peacefully is all about respect and calm behavior.
Do: Ignore Them Politely
The best and most effective approach is ‘polite indifference.’ When you walk or scooter down your gang, do so calmly and confidently. They will quickly learn that you are a normal part of the environment and not a threat.
Do: Learn Their Routines
You will soon learn which dog sleeps where, and at what time of day they are most active. Respecting their space and routines is a key part of living in a local neighborhood and dealing with stray dogs in Bali respectfully.
Do: Make Friends with Your Human Neighbors
Your Indonesian neighbors often know the community animals well, including their names and temperaments. A friendly chat can give you valuable insight and also shows you respect the community you’ve joined.
The “Don’ts”: Avoiding Common Mistakes
Avoiding these common mistakes will prevent most potential problems.
Don’t: Feed Them at Your Gate
While it may seem like a kind gesture, feeding dogs at your gate can create significant problems. It can make them aggressively protective of your property, leading to territorial behavior like barking at anyone who passes, and can also cause fights with other dogs.
Don’t: Assume They Want to Be Petted
Even if a community dog wags its tail, do not reach out to pet it, as it may not be accustomed to physical contact from strangers. This is a fundamental rule we cover in our guide to Bali’s Street Dogs. The same caution should be applied to the many community cats you’ll see, which we discuss in our Bali Cats Safety Guide.
Don’t: Challenge a Barking Dog
Barking is usually territorial communication. Do not stare the dog down, shout at it, or make sudden movements. The best response is to remain calm, avoid eye contact, and confidently continue on your way.
What to Do in Case of an Incident at Your Villa
While following these rules makes negative incidents rare, it’s crucial to have a clear plan for what to do if a bite or scratch happens to you, a family member, or a guest at your villa.
- Secure the Area: Calmly go inside and close the gate to ensure your immediate safety.
- Administer First Aid: Immediately wash the wound thoroughly with soap and running water for a full 15 minutes. This is the most critical first-aid step.
- Seek a Medical Consultation: You must visit a medical clinic for a professional risk assessment for rabies and other infections. It’s helpful to calmly try and identify the animal for future reference, but do not attempt to capture it. A doctor will clean the wound properly and determine the necessary next steps, which may include starting a course of the rabies vaccine.
To understand all the risks and the importance of post-exposure treatment, read our complete medical guide to Rabies in Bali.
Conclusion
Living alongside Bali’s community animals is a unique part of the expat experience. By being a conscious and respectful neighbor, you can ensure a safe and peaceful environment for everyone—two-legged and four-legged alike.
Medical Care That Comes to You.
If an incident occurs at your villa and you’re unable to travel, our Doctor on Call service can provide an urgent consultation and wound care in the comfort of your own space.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Animals Around Your Villa
A dog keeps sleeping right outside my gate. Is this a problem?
Usually not. The dog has likely chosen that spot as its own. As long as it is not aggressive, the best approach is to politely ignore it and go about your day. It will see you as part of the normal environment.
How can I stop dogs from barking at me every time I leave my villa?
Consistent, calm behavior is key. Walk confidently, avoid eye contact, and don’t show fear or aggression. Over time, the dogs will recognize you as a non-threatening part of the neighborhood and the barking will likely decrease.
My Indonesian neighbor’s dog seems friendly. Can I pet it?
You should always ask the owner for permission first (“Boleh saya pegang anjingnya?”). Even with permission, approach slowly and let the dog sniff your hand before attempting to pet it.
There’s a new litter of puppies in my ‘gang’. What should I do?
Do not touch them. The mother will be extremely protective. The best thing you can do is contact a local animal welfare organization like BAWA, who can advise on the best course of action for the puppies’ health and future.
Can I adopt one of the community dogs?
Yes, but it should be done through a proper channel. Contacting a local rescue organization is the best way. They can help with health checks, vaccinations, and sterilization before you officially adopt the dog.
How do I dispose of my trash securely to not attract animals?
Ensure your trash bins have tight-fitting lids. Many villas have enclosed trash areas. Try not to leave trash bags outside your gate overnight before collection day.
Is it my responsibility if a community dog bites someone outside my villa?
This is a complex legal question, but generally, community dogs are considered the shared responsibility of the ‘banjar’ (local council). However, avoid any actions (like feeding) that might make the dog specifically territorial over your property.
What can I do about cats fighting in my garden at night?
Unfortunately, this is a common part of life in Bali. You can try using humane deterrents like motion-activated sprinklers or ultrasonic repellents, but often the best solution is simply to ensure your own pets are safely inside.
I’m scared of dogs. Should I avoid renting a villa?
Not necessarily. You could choose a villa within a managed complex that has security and fewer free-roaming animals, or choose an area that is more urban. Being armed with the knowledge of how to act calmly can also greatly reduce your fear.
What is the best way to befriend the neighborhood dogs?
The best “friendship” is one of mutual, respectful distance. The goal is not to make them your pet, but to have them recognize you as a neutral, non-threatening presence. Calmly ignoring them is often the fastest way to achieve this.
